<B>SWARM OF THE LOTUS</B>
They combine some of the best elements from bands like <B>TODAY IS THE DAY</B>, <B>MASTODON</B>, <B>CONVERGE</B>, and early <B>NEUROSIS</B>. Needless to say this band takes the harsh sludge brutality and rocks it hard. The amazing thing is their new album, "When White Becomes Black" is a debut. While they're not the most innovative band around, they're definately one of the better ones. The first time I heard their album, I had to play it again three times. It absolutely slays.

<B>PELICAN</B>
Their newest, "Australasia" was a total surprise to me. Imagine the best parts of bands like <B>ISIS</B> and <B>5IVE</B> thrown together into one atomospheristic monster of an album. Definately a worthy listen. They totally surprised me as I had never heard of <B>PELICAN</B> in my life. Ever.